NWOBHM Bands: A Guide To The New Wave Of British Heavy Metal

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NWOBHM Bands: A Guide to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), guys, was like a seismic jolt to the rock world in the late 70s and early 80s. It wasn't just a musical genre; it was a cultural reset, a rebellion against the fading embers of 70s rock and the rise of punk. NWOBHM injected raw energy, blistering riffs, and a DIY attitude that revitalized heavy metal and influenced countless bands that followed. Think of it as the bridge between classic rock and the thrash, speed, and extreme metal genres that would soon dominate the scene. This movement wasn't just about the music; it was about a whole new attitude. Bands were hitting the road, playing every gig they could get, and building a loyal following from the ground up. They were hungry, ambitious, and ready to take on the world. The impact of NWOBHM is still felt today. Many of the bands that emerged from this era went on to achieve international success and continue to tour and record to this day. The influence of NWOBHM can be heard in the music of countless metal bands that followed, from the thrash metal pioneers of the 80s to the modern metalcore bands of today. It was a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal, and its legacy will continue to inspire musicians for generations to come. So, crank up the volume and get ready to explore the incredible world of NWOBHM! You'll discover a treasure trove of amazing music, and you'll gain a new appreciation for the bands that helped shape the sound of heavy metal as we know it.

The Pioneers of NWOBHM

When we talk about NWOBHM pioneers, several names immediately spring to mind, acting as the spearhead of this groundbreaking movement. Iron Maiden, without a doubt, stands tall as one of the most successful and influential bands to emerge from the NWOBHM scene. Their signature galloping rhythms, dual guitar harmonies, and epic songwriting, combined with the theatrical stage presence of frontman Bruce Dickinson, catapulted them to global stardom. Tracks like "Run to the Hills" and "The Trooper" became anthems for a generation of metalheads. Def Leppard, while arguably evolving into a more polished, arena-rock sound later in their career, started as a raw and energetic NWOBHM band. Their early albums, such as "On Through the Night" and "High 'n' Dry," showcased their powerful riffs, catchy hooks, and soaring vocals, laying the foundation for their future success. Saxon is another cornerstone of the NWOBHM movement, delivering a consistent stream of hard-hitting albums and energetic live performances. Their anthemic songs, such as "Wheels of Steel" and "Denim and Leather," captured the spirit of the era and cemented their status as one of the genre's leading bands. These bands, along with others like Diamond Head and Angel Witch, weren't just playing music; they were building a movement. They were touring relentlessly, releasing independent records, and connecting with fans on a personal level. They were the embodiment of the DIY ethos that defined the NWOBHM scene, and their success paved the way for countless other bands to follow in their footsteps. Their music was raw, energetic, and full of passion, and it resonated with a generation of young people who were looking for something new and exciting. They were the voice of a new generation of metalheads, and their legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world.

The Underrated Gems of NWOBHM

Beyond the household names, the NWOBHM scene was teeming with underrated gems: bands that may not have achieved mainstream success but left an indelible mark on the genre. Angel Witch, with their dark and occult-themed lyrics and Paul Gaskin's haunting vocals, created a unique and atmospheric sound that set them apart from their peers. Their self-titled debut album is considered a classic of the NWOBHM era. Diamond Head, featuring the prodigious talent of guitarist Brian Tatler, delivered complex and innovative songs that influenced a generation of musicians, including Metallica. Their debut album, "Lightning to the Nations," is a masterpiece of NWOBHM songwriting. Raven, with their high-energy performances and twin-guitar attack, were one of the most exciting live bands of the NWOBHM era. Their albums, such as "Rock Until You Drop" and "Wiped Out," are full of catchy riffs and anthemic choruses. Girlschool, the all-female band, proved that women could rock just as hard as men. Their powerful riffs, catchy songs, and rebellious attitude made them a popular draw on the NWOBHM circuit. These bands, while not as commercially successful as some of their contemporaries, were just as important to the development of the NWOBHM sound. They were pushing the boundaries of the genre, experimenting with different sounds and styles, and creating music that was both innovative and exciting. They were the unsung heroes of the NWOBHM scene, and their contributions should not be forgotten. Their music continues to be discovered and appreciated by new generations of metal fans, and their influence can be heard in the music of countless bands that followed.

The Legacy and Influence of NWOBHM

The NWOBHM's legacy extends far beyond its initial run, shaping the landscape of heavy metal for decades to come. The raw energy and DIY ethic of the movement paved the way for the thrash metal explosion of the 80s, with bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth citing NWOBHM bands as major influences. The emphasis on fast tempos, aggressive riffs, and technically proficient musicianship that characterized NWOBHM became a hallmark of the thrash metal sound. The influence of NWOBHM can also be heard in the development of other subgenres of metal, such as speed metal, power metal, and even extreme metal. The emphasis on technicality and aggression that was pioneered by NWOBHM bands helped to lay the foundation for these heavier and more extreme styles of metal. But perhaps the most important legacy of NWOBHM is its DIY ethic. The bands of the NWOBHM era showed that it was possible to achieve success without the backing of a major label. They toured relentlessly, released independent records, and connected with fans on a personal level. This DIY spirit has inspired countless bands to take control of their own careers and to create music on their own terms. The NWOBHM was more than just a musical genre; it was a cultural movement that empowered a generation of young musicians to take control of their own destiny. Its legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world, and its influence can be heard in the music of countless bands that followed. So, next time you hear a killer riff or a blistering solo, remember the NWOBHM and the bands that helped to shape the sound of heavy metal as we know it. They were the pioneers, the innovators, and the rebels who changed the world of music forever.

Where Are They Now? Catching Up With NWOBHM Bands

Many of the NWOBHM bands are still active today, continuing to tour and record new music for their legions of fans. Iron Maiden, of course, remains a global phenomenon, packing stadiums around the world and releasing critically acclaimed albums. Their longevity is a testament to their talent, their dedication, and their ability to connect with fans on a deep and emotional level. Def Leppard continues to be a popular draw on the arena-rock circuit, delivering their classic hits and showcasing their enduring appeal. Their music has stood the test of time, and they continue to be a favorite of rock fans of all ages. Saxon remains a force to be reckoned with, delivering their signature brand of hard-hitting metal to audiences around the world. They have never compromised their sound or their vision, and they continue to be one of the most respected bands in the NWOBHM scene. But even bands that didn't achieve mainstream success have continued to make music and tour over the years. Angel Witch, Diamond Head, and Raven all remain active, playing festivals and clubs around the world and keeping the spirit of NWOBHM alive. These bands are a testament to the enduring power of music and the dedication of the musicians who create it. They may not be household names, but they continue to be an important part of the metal scene, and their music continues to inspire new generations of fans. So, if you have the chance to see any of these bands live, don't miss it. You'll be witnessing a piece of history, and you'll be supporting the bands that helped to shape the sound of heavy metal as we know it. They are the true legends of the NWOBHM, and their music will continue to rock for generations to come.

Diving Deeper: Essential NWOBHM Albums

To truly understand the NWOBHM sound, you need to dive into the essential albums that defined the era. Here's a quick rundown to get you started:

  • Iron Maiden - "The Number of the Beast" (1982): This album is a metal masterpiece, showcasing the band's signature sound and featuring some of their most iconic songs.
  • Def Leppard - "High 'n' Dry" (1981): A raw and energetic album that showcases the band's early NWOBHM sound.
  • Saxon - "Wheels of Steel" (1980): An anthemic album that captures the spirit of the NWOBHM era.
  • Angel Witch - "Angel Witch" (1980): A dark and atmospheric album that is considered a classic of the NWOBHM era.
  • Diamond Head - "Lightning to the Nations" (1980): A complex and innovative album that influenced a generation of musicians.
  • Raven - "Rock Until You Drop" (1981): A high-energy album that is full of catchy riffs and anthemic choruses.

These albums are just a starting point, but they will give you a good introduction to the NWOBHM sound. So, crank up the volume and get ready to rock! You'll discover a treasure trove of amazing music, and you'll gain a new appreciation for the bands that helped to shape the sound of heavy metal as we know it. The NWOBHM was a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal, and its legacy will continue to inspire musicians for generations to come. So, don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this incredible genre of music. You won't be disappointed!